The Department of Public Works/Engineering (about us) is responsible for ensuring that City-owned transportation infrastructure and facilities, transit services and capital improvement programs are designed, engineered, constructed, maintained and/or modified in a presentable and safe condition. The department coordinates a variety of activities and services including the preparation of plans and specifications for public works related construction projects; the design and inspection of public facilities; ensuring the proper installation of all public improvements made in new subdivisions, such as streets, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, water mains, sewer lines, and drainage; and provides custodial service to City facilities. The Streets division is responsible for preventive and regular maintenance of streets and appurtenant facilities. Santa Maria Regional Transit (SMRT) system provides a regional public transportation service.

Department of Public Works Organizational Chart

• Bids and Proposals
• Capital Projects
• Engineering
• Public Transit Services

FEES: Public Works Fees

1. City Sidewalk / Potholes 

Report a damaged, raised or hazardous City sidewalk or a pothole by contacting (805) 925-0951 ext. 2229 or email: pw_ops@cityofsantamaria.org 

2. City Lights / Traffic Signals 

Report inoperable streetlights and traffic signal concerns by contacting (805) 925-0951 ext. 2229 or email: pw_ops@cityofsantamaria.org

3. Reporting City Signs 

If there is a problem with a City street sign, or needs replacement, contact (805)925-0951 Ext. 2229 or email: pw_ops@cityofsantamaria.org

4. City Trees 

This is a Recreation & Parks service, please call (805) 925-0951 ext. 2260.

5. Request for Traffic Markings (red curb painting), limited time parking, no stopping zones. 

Please email our Traffic Engineer or call (805)925-0951 Ext. 2225

6. What do I need an Encroachment Permit for? 

An Encroachment Permit is needed for any work being done in the Public Right-of-Way (e.g. sidewalks, easements, driveway approaches, sewer, water connections to mainlines, etc.)  

Please review our Standard Drawings for more information on work that is done in the Right-of-Way.  

7. How do I apply for an Encroachment Permit? 

Submit an Encroachment Permit Application via email or in person. If your project will impact traffic/pedestrians, Traffic Control Plans will need to be submitted.  Turnaround time is 10 business days.  

8. How do I submit an Erosion Sediment Control Plan? 

Submit an Encroachment Permit along with the Erosion Sediment Control Plan Application, electronic plans, and outline of work schedule (amount of working days) for review via email or in person.  

ESCP are required for any projects with soil disturbing activities that are less than one acre.  

9. How do I request a Water Main Shutdown? 

Submit an Encroachment Permit Application along with our Water Main Shutdown Application. All documents must be submitted a minimum of one week prior to the requested start date.  

10. Issues with lateral in City Street Right-of-Way  

Property owners are responsible for the entire pipe length, including the wye at the point of connection to the City's mainline.